Some thoughts on the design of major library buildings

Library buildings of all sizes but, particularly large ones, should have the following purposes: - protection of books and collections; housing of books and other collections; - housing of the various catalogues; - accommodation of readers; - provision for staff, - quarters for ancillary functions; - quarters for library administration; - study, research and writing quarters; - space to publicise resources; - structure to serve as a memorial. These can be studied, agreed, and communicated by means of both an initial and final brief. In it, qualitative factors are of singular importance. Ten are suggested together with some British space standards. Ecological library buildings and architectural options are outlined.